a bar graph with a questions markThe European Anti-Poverty Network (EAPN) has released a expert study looking to make the case for an EU Framework Directive on Minimum Income. It provides a legal analysis as well as legal and policy arguments on the feasibility of introducing a binding EU framework for adequate national minimum income schemes.

Although in recent years, poverty levels have started to decline modestly, almost 110 million people (more than one fifth of the entire EU population) are still at risk of poverty or social exclusion. The COVID-19 crisis will certainly add to these high numbers.  In this context, adequate, accessible and enabling minimum income schemes will not only ensure people’s fundamental social rights, but will also help them to stay active in society.

The study concludes that a legal instrument on minimum income should be in the form of a ‘framework’ that sets core standards at the EU level that are to be operationalised by Member States. A framework provides the necessary flexibility to develop minimum income schemes that are country-specific and to adapt these core standards to national circumstances therefore respecting the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality.

 

To learn more, please visit EAPN’s website.

For more information on our advocacy work in the area of Minimum Income, please read our response to the latest Council conclusions.